Maintenance Instructions54CHECKING/SERVICINGCHECKING/SERVICINGSecurity of Air Filtration ComponentsNOTE: The following inspection is only an externalinspection and should be done without “disturb-ing” the filtration components.On a daily basis, visually inspect the external condi-tion of the complete air cleaner system. Thefollowing items should be inspected:1. Check the Donaldson Radialseal™ air cleanercanister for damage. Make sure the cover is inplace and the cover latches are secure - do notrun the engine without the air cleaner cover inplace and secure.2. Inspect the air intake hose for cracks, nicks,cuts, etc., and check the hose clamps fortightness.BatteryNOTE: For initial battery service during setup, referto Battery Service in Assembly Instructions.IMPORTANT: Make sure battery is securelymounted in the frame. A loose battery may causedamage to the case resulting in acid leakage andsevere damage to the machine. A hazard may becreated by damage to critical working parts andsafety systems.Electrolyte LevelThe battery electrolyte level should be checked afterevery 25 hours of operation. To check electrolytelevel:1. Remove battery cell filler caps.2. Check the electrolyte level. If the level is belowthe bottom of the vent well, fill with drinkingwater to the bottom of the vent wells [1/4 to 1/2in. (6 to 13 mm) above the plates].3. Replace filler caps.IMPORTANT: DO NOT overfill the battery. Electro-lyte will overflow through the vent tube onto parts ofthe machine and WILL result in severe corrosion.Cleaning the TerminalsIf battery terminals are corroded, remove batteryfrom the mower. Using a wire brush, remove corro-sion with a solution of one part baking soda andfour parts water. Rinse with clean water. Coat theterminals with petroleum jelly or terminal protectorspray to retard further corrosion.Charging the BatteryDANGERTo prevent accidental starting of the en-gine when servicing or adjusting the ma-chine, remove the key from the ignitionswitch and disconnect the spark plug wire.DANGERBATTERIES PRODUCE EXPLOSIVEGASES• Charge the battery in a well-ventilatedarea, so that gases produced while charg-ing can dissipate.• Keep sparks, flames, and smoking ma-terials away from the battery at all times.• Make sure the battery cap vents are open(check manifold vent on each cap).• Make sure the battery charger is un-plugged before connecting or discon-necting cables to the battery.